Brakes are arguably the most important safety component of your vehicle. With a combination of smart driving tactics and assistance from an auto mechanic, you can keep them in excellent working condition for the long haul. Here’s a guide to suggestions for how to keep your brakes working well over time. 

How to Keep Your Brakes in Great Shape

1. Don’t Ride the Brake

One of the most damaging things you can do to your brakes is to ride it gradually as a way of stopping. That prolonged pressure generates intense heat that ultimately will start corroding the pads and other parts. It’s much more responsible to monitor your speed, so when you know you’ll need to stop, you can start removing your foot from the gas, and then rely on the brake for a single stoppage point. 

2. Schedule Regular Maintenance

In addition to being a savvy driver, it’s important to have a professional inspect your brakes at least once per year. The auto mechanic will be able to quickly determine if the pads are wearing down, the calipers are misaligned, or the rotor has begun corroding. The professional can make a timely repair or tweak to ensure that one warped component doesn’t ruin the whole system. You can also expect your auto mechanic to flush the brake liquid, which stops being able to lubricate well after enough time passes. The flush both adds fresh new liquid and removes the old, which is filled with grime that can damage your brakes. 

3. Avoid Tailgating

Another bad habit is driving very close behind other cars on the road. The problem is that the limited distance gives you little margin for error if you need to stop quickly, making it more likely you’ll have to slam on the brakes. Frequent, aggressive braking is a major force of wear, so it’s better to avoid that by driving a few car lengths behind the nearest vehicle. That extra breathing room will let you slow down more naturally and spare your brakes in the process. 

If you think there’s a problem with your brakes or it’s time for your next scheduled maintenance, visit the trusted auto mechanics at Kettering-Oakwood Automotive. Based in Dayton, OH, the auto shop is available for both repairs and maintenance, such as flushing the brake liquid. You can receive an estimate for the work by calling (937) 299-2468. Learn more about the auto shop by visiting their website.